LOCAL RESIDENTS and businesses are concerned over news of a proposed pub in the premises of a former newsagents in Yeadon near Leeds.

Those with homes nearby are worried about the possibility of anti-social behaviour if a pub is opened so close to where they live.

The residential Kirk Lane area is away from the main drinking establishments on the high street.

Barbara Hudson, 68, of Swaine Hill Crescent, said: “It’s bad enough when people walk home on a night. We hear them at the end of the street, shouting and singing. There might be fights or rowdy behaviour. We just don’t know.

“It’s a bad place for a bar, at the end of a quiet terraced row of houses. The local people don’t want it.”

Mrs Hudson also said that she and others on the street hadn’t been informed by the council of the proposal and instead found out for themselves on social media.

Simon Harland, 53, owner of nearby Harland’s Music Shop said: “It is actually the first I have heard of it, but I think it sounds good. Cars could be a problem because we only have street parking.

“There is a risk of some drunken behaviour but overall I think it could be beneficial to my business. Certainly much better than an empty shop front.”

John Stein, the applicant for the change of use, said that the bar would not cause any anti-social disturbances, and would not be open late.

Mr Stein said: “It will be a micro-pub mainly serving craft ales aimed mainly at over-30s. We will have Challenge 25 in place.

“The bar will have no live or amplified music, only some quiet background music. It is intended to be a place to go for a catch up and a relaxed drink with friends.”

Mr Stein also said that while he hoped local people would be customers, he hoped the micro-pub would also appeal to members of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA).

Conservative ward councillor for Guiseley and Rawdon, Graham Latty, said: “Generally speaking, local residents are not in favour, and personally speaking I am not either.

“Turning it into a bar increases footfall to the quiet area. Noise disturbance also increases for residents and parking will become a big problem.

“All round, it’s not a good idea. I would say that the weight of opposition is such that the planning department would have to give it considerable thought.